The original Loire Valley estate and château that Comte Lafond acquired in 1787 was owned by the illegitimate daughter of the French king, Louis XV. Today the winery in the hands of Comte Lafond’s descendent Baron Patrick de Ladoucette. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes are whole-cluster pressed, then fermented at cool temperature in stainless steel tanks for six to eight weeks, with an additional three to six weeks on the lees. This careful handling results in an elegant wine with focused, fresh, citrus fruit flavors and flinty notes. The time on lees, the expired yeast cells, ensures that the citrus fruit has a smooth, silky texture. It is great with goat cheese and pairs well with white meats and fresh veggies.
Comte Lafond, Sancerre (Loire Valley, France) 2022
By Rebecca Murphy